Coveney tells UN 'the stench of burning bodies' hung over his Ukraine trip

UN Security Council hears foreign minister's indictment of Russia's 'madness' — as well as practical steps including Ireland's increased commitment to the International Criminal Court

Ireland's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Simon Coveney, pictured with members of the Defence Forces during 1916 commemorations at the GPO on Dublin's O'Connell St at the weekend. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Simon Coveney has told the UN the "stench of burning buildings and bodies" hung over his trip to Ukraine last week.

Speaking in New York at the UN Security Council, the Minister of Foreign Affairs noted the renewed offensive by Russian forces on Eastern Ukraine.